Help for 'overage' job seekers

We have had a lot of responses to the letter sent by Matthew (September 15, 2008) in which he offered to help “L” in her job search. He also asked us to forward to him the contact information of other job seekers who were having a problem finding employment due to their age.

It is encouraging to know that there are people like Matthew who are actually interested in helping other people. If you or someone you know is willing to help others in whatever way, please feel free to send us an e-mail.

Here are a few more letters from people who were interested in contacting Matthew.

Dear Nanay,

This is regarding a letter-sender by the name of Matthew who replied to another sender by the name of “L.” I failed to read L’s letter but judging from the reply of Matthew, I am assuming that L and I have the same problem regarding trouble in securing a job.

I am 35 years old, armed with a bachelor’s degree from one of the top schools in Manila with some MBA units taken from another top school. I have worked in several companies and assumed positions that have entailed great responsibility. I have taken seminars and workshops that further improved my proficiency in my areas of responsibility. As far as my performance is concerned, I can honestly say that I’ve been a very good, hardworking, diligent and competitive employee and my previous superiors can always attest to that.

Having said that, my plight, then, is my inability to find a job after being out of work for more than a year now. I’ve applied to several companies but to no avail and I am at a point when I can almost conclude that age is the biggest factor. With my patience wearing thin, frustration is slowly creeping in.

Nanay, can you please send me the contact details of Matthew? He’s exactly the kind of person who can enlighten me about this predicament and it’s so nice of him to take time out to share his knowledge with readers who may have similar plights. Thank you so much, Nanay!

 J

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Dear Nanay,

I have plans of resigning from my present job this December and bringing my family back to Luzon. There is no sure employment yet waiting for me to support my wife and two angels, ages 5 and 4. However, I am inspired by your letter-sender named Matthew, who sent a reply to a lady facing similar difficulties. I am 38 years old already and living quite comfortably (free housing accommodation, electricity, water allowance and bus service) but the fact is we’re no longer happy here in Leyte.

We don’t intend to stay here for long. It is quite expensive to even take a vacation and meet our relatives. Kindly forward my interest about possible career prospects available in Matthew’s company. I want to know more and discuss it in detail. My background is in sales and marketing with a purchasing background. But I am open to new possibilities!

 Jofel

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Dear Nanay,

This refers to the message of Mr. Matthew. Since he did not indicate his address, may I request you to kindly forward my résumé to him?

I have applied to a number of companies but the answer I always get is either I am overqualified or overage. I am 57 years old and today, 57 is the new 47!    DORIE

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If you have a question, e-mail us at asknanay@nationalbookstore.com.ph or just drop your letter at drop boxes in all National Book Store branches nationwide.